The proposed bill would amend current election statutes by incorporating voting centers into the random selection pool for hand count audits, alongside precincts. Specifically, it would require that at least two percent of the selected locations for hand counting can be either precincts or voting centers, as determined by the county political party chairpersons. Additionally, the bill mandates that the unofficial vote totals from all voting centers must be made public prior to the selection of locations for the hand count audit. The hand count audit is required to commence immediately after the selection of precincts or voting centers, ensuring a more timely and transparent process.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the timeline for conducting hand counts of early ballots, stipulating that these counts must begin within 24 hours after the completion of tabulation, rather than waiting for the closing of polls. It also clarifies that the hand counts must be completed before the election canvassing occurs, and the results must be made publicly available on both the county's and the Secretary of State's websites. Overall, these updates aim to enhance the integrity and efficiency of the election auditing process.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-602
House Engrossed Version: 16-602